Learning Resources

Abstract: The Ecosystem Project aims to develop tools and methodologies for depicting the complex ecosystems that surround and make up higher education. This is a collaborative presentation with one of the project's institutional partners, The State University of New York (SUNY) at New Paltz, and one of the project's founding partners, the Renaissance Center for Interdisciplinary Thinking, Knowledge Integration, and Advanced Applications of Imagination. Together we'll explore the Hudson Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem and reveal its inhabitants, value dynamics, and potential interventions that can help the ecosystem become healthier and grow the entrepreneurial economy of the lower Hudson Valley.

Abstract: Portland State University's (PSU) integrated planning process involved multiple departments, coalesced institutional and strategic goals, bolstered educational and industry ties, and focused on diversity to dismantle barriers within STEM disciplines. PSU pioneered a planning and design process for its new science building that amplified underrepresented voices to diversify the STEM workforce, dramatically shifting design outcomes and student pathways. This session will address how institutions can prioritize broad engagement in planning, and how foregrounding input from underrepresented groups can alter preconceptions and reveal the challenges that exist in institutional operational norms that inhibit student success.

Abstract: Data science is a rapidly developing discipline and serves as a catalyst for the future development and management of institutional faculties. This session will examine the unique engagement process behind the University of Virginia's (UVA) 'School without Walls', as well as its dynamic programming and design for serving an emerging discipline. This project plays a special role in providing a venue for community and industry interaction and research. We'll explore points of engagement with an expanding faculty throughout the design process, which inspired flexible internal planning, and reflect on the appropriateness of wider contextual influences on the design solution.

Abstract: Institutions are struggling to increase retention and success for students from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds. Michigan State University's (MSU) Multicultural Center offers safe spaces for education, healing, community, and building solidarity with one other. From advocacy to implementation, the student-driven process behind multicultural center was authentic and inclusive, resulting in a multi-functional facility that serves a highly diverse set of cultural activities and promotes a sense of belonging and wellbeing. Involving students at the highest levels of project decision-making during planning and the design process can reinforce an institution's mission around education and commitment to creating authentic, inclusive campus environments.

Abstract: With a growing population of neurodiverse students, Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services (RCAAS) acts as a national prototype for institutional change to increase engagement and success of autistic students through purpose-built environments and programs. Using the RCAAS as a case study, we'll present an interdisciplinary approach for addressing complex issues around autism through the organization's college support program, psychological services clinic, and intensive outpatient clinic. Come learn how to leverage the campus setting, transit, recreation, and jobs to integrate autistic students, provide clinical experience, and design for a vulnerable population, resulting in better environments and wellbeing for all.

Abstract: Academic office spaces have historically followed established norms. These patterns are changing to maximize and condense real estate, minimize operating costs, and adjust to remote and hybrid work. This session will examine fundamentals of faculty and administrative offices and review student adjacencies, hot-desking and co-sharing space trends, and the future of hybrid work environments. We'll spotlight three unique academic office solutions that cover both new construction and existing renovation construction types. Join us to benefit from lessons learned, identifying potential pitfalls and new opportunities.

Abstract: Designing a forward-thinking research building without identified occupants is a bold undertaking. Through an integrated planning and data-driven process, North Carolina State University (NCSU) designed a flexible academic research building, inspiring cross-functional collaboration which has led to increased industry partnerships and innovation. This session will highlight how a collaborative team enabled decision-making throughout the design process to create a future-proofed, energizing hub for academic research. Come learn how to leverage benchmarking, analytics, and an integrated planning process to design successful and innovative buildings on your campus.

Abstract: Institutions can move beyond design project engagement activities by actively collaborating with students to explore issues of belonging and mattering to make more meaningful design choices. This session will delve into research created with students from racial minorities at North Carolina State University's (NCSU) D. H. Jr. Hill Library, which explores their perceptions and offers their visions for more just and equitable spaces. Along with learning how to connect students' sense of belonging and mattering to campus design through meaningful collaboration, you'll leave this session with a replicable research model to use with students to envision more inclusive learning environments.

Abstract: Championing excellence through campus initiatives, Morgan State University's Thurgood Marshall Hall centralizes diverse student services at the student's doorstep for a holistic focus on sustainability, wellness, and living-learning. We'll detail this facility's multi-phase, multi-story approach to densifying campus housing as enrollment soars, which preserves open space while integrating premier dining experiences. Join us to explore the financial, operational, experiential, and wellness outcomes of a hybrid housing and dining facility that encompasses multiple student services at one thriving HBCU, including planning and design aspects with scalable techniques for elevating campus life.